Author
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Burner, David |
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Submitted to: Sugar Bulletin
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 11/13/1998 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: From 1994 through 1998 the Louisiana sugarcane industry, through the American Sugar Cane League, provided funds to support basic sugarcane breeding at USDA/ARS/SRRC Sugarcane Research Unit. The objective of this report was to update sugarcane growers on crosses, seed yield, and real and potential impact of this funding. Topics included theory and method of crossing, selection, direct and collateral breeding research, and impact. It was concluded that while basic sugarcane breeding was a long- term process, it has real world application that directly benefits the Louisiana sugarcane growers. Technical Abstract: The Houma basic breeding program has been underway since 1972. The American Sugar Cane League was committed then, as now, to this research effort. This report summarizes the direct and indirect research activities of the basic breeding program from 1994 through 1997. Basic breeding is fundamentally important in assuring future success of commercial breeding programs by broadening the genetic base of sugarcane and infusing traits such as pest resistance and stubbling ability from exotic species. These factors enable sugarcane to better withstand the climate, pests, and soils it encounters in Louisiana. Results of basic breeding are indeed long-term, but have come to fruition as evidenced by the development of mosaic resistant germplasm, and more significantly, the development of three commercial varieties (LHo 83-153, HoCP 85-845, and LCP 85-384) derived from basic crosses. Further, the work would not have been possible without collaboration between researchers at Houma, the American Sugar Cane League, the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, and Canal Point, Florida. Louisiana sugarcane growers are the ultimate benefactors of this research. |
